If you think webcams are merely for chatting with your family and friends, then you need to know something new – it can now be used as a good home surveillance tool. Dropcam has brought the ordinary webcam into a higher level, with more features that you will surely love.

Unlike regular webcams, the Dropcam does not only offer a live feed but also a DVR function. Meaning, it records all the videos that it takes in case you want to review them. All you need to do is plug it into a wall outlet. The record time capacity of the webcam depends on the package that you avail. The Plus Plan ($8.95 monthly) can save a week’s worth of videos. Meanwhile, the Pro Plan ($24.95 monthly) can save videos for up to 30 days. You can also get the basic service, which is free, but you get no video storage here.

The videos stored by the Dropcam can be viewed in a timeline. When you mouse over on any point in the timeline, the image captured during that particular time is shown. The device also comes with a motion-sensing ability. You’ll easily see the points in the timeline when motion is sensed because yellow dots appear at those points. Another feature that the company is working on is the ability of the device to send alerts in the form of SMS, email, or push notification on your iPhone. These alerts will be sent whenever the cam detects motion. This Dropcam Wireless IP Home Security Camera with Online Recording is available at $199.